Park County Community Foundation

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OVERVIEW: This funder supports nonprofits in Park County, Montana, in broad issue areas like community development, education, health, human services, arts and culture, environment, youth, seniors, and mental health. Annual applications are accepted.

IP TAKE: This is an accessible funder with an online application and an annual deadline for unsolicited requests. Education is a top cause.

PROFILE: The Park County Community Foundation (PCCF) was established in 2006 by residents of Park County, Montana, and is based in the town of Livingston. It seeks to solve “Park County's challenges […] through mutual understanding, collaboration and a robust culture of philanthropy.” The Park Electric Cooperative established the Park County Community Foundation Fund at the Montana Community Foundation in the 1990s. Today, the foundation is a separate entity that addresses local needs.

In its first 10 years, the funder made at least $2 million in contributions, fiscal sponsorships, and pledges to local groups. In a past year, it had over $600,000 in total assets. Current financial data is here and annual reports are here.

An annual grants committee reviews competitive applications from nonprofits. All proposals must benefit Park County residents. The average grant ranges from $500 to $5,000. Nonprofits can also apply for a collaborative grant with one or more other nonprofits for up to $20,000. The applications for both types of grants are typically due at the end of April. Applications are on the PCCF website.  

Grantees include Big Sky Youth Empowerment, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Park and Sweet Grass Counties, Child Care Connections, the Clyde Park Fire Department, and the Gardiner Food Pantry. Overall, grantmaking priorities include community development, education, health, human services, arts and culture, environment, youth, seniors, and mental health.

PCCF also administers the Barbara Thronson/Park County Community Foundation Scholarship for graduates of Park High School, Gardiner High School, and Shields Valley High School. Other foundation programs support high school graduation rates and childcare.

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PEOPLE:

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